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Monitors that compete with quality floorstanders??

Like to know if there is a monitor, (even a larger monitor than bookshelf) that can compete with high quality floor standers across the board. I realize that bass response will always be problematic, for example, one 6 inch woofer in a monitor versus two or three 5 inch woofers in a floor stander which will produce better bass, and upper midrange

I could spend $2500-$2700 for such a monitor and stands used or new. I am not particularly interested in using a subwoofer. Smoothness, wide soundstaging, precise imaging and overall musicality are very important characteristics of such a "monitor" Thanks
sunnyjim
chrshanl37
841 posts
 
I started a very similar thread on this same subject a few months ago. After auditioning a few monitors I settled on a pair of Soundfield Audio Monitor 1's. They are a unique design using a Kef Uni Q coax midrange/tweeter augmented with a powered 8" subwoofer in each cabinet. They are phenomenal speakers and the bass drivers can be fine tuned via controls on the back.

Before I purchased these I had intended on getting both the Sjofn's and the Mani-II for an audition.

Best of luck in your search.
tgrisham
1,291 posts
 
I think you are comparing apples and oranges. My experience tells me that monitors give you excellent sound staging and a disappearing act and floor standers give you deeper bass and a bigger presence, depending on amplification of course. How deep do you want your bass? How large is the room? I just don't know how to compare them side by side. It's a tough decision and I'm afraid you will have to buy some used speakers and trial and error. Good luck.
tonykay
1,311 posts
 
If you can live without the room-shaking bass, look for a used pair of Sonus Faber Electa Amators. With a 6" woofer, and the famous Dynaudio Esotar tweeter, you would be hard pressed to find a better sounding speaker, IMO. At around $2.5-$3K used (with the original walnut/marble stands), I believe you would find what you are looking for. Just my two cents!
simao's avatar
simao
1,855 posts
 
Reference 3A de Capo's. They go from 42H-40K. beautiful, open, punchy monitors.
telescope_trade
555 posts
 
I second the Ref 3A DeCapo. Best Largish monitor I have heard & owned.
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